Getting Back in the Game: How Physical Therapy Can Help High School Athletes Return to Sports

By: Anna Hilpertshauser, PT, DPT

As summer fades and high school sports seasons loom on the horizon, athletes are eager to get back into their games—whether it’s track and field, flag football, cheerleading, soccer, or football. At A Step Ahead Physical Therapy, we recognize that returning to sports is more than just resuming practice; it’s about preparing your body to perform at its best and stay injury-free. This is where physical therapy becomes a crucial ally.

Why Physical Therapy is Essential for Athletes Returning to Sports

Returning to sports after a break or injury involves more than just physical preparation. It requires a holistic approach to ensure that athletes are not only ready to perform but also capable of avoiding injuries. Here’s how physical therapy can make a significant difference:

1. Assessment and Personalized Treatment Plans

Before diving back into the action, a thorough assessment is vital. Physical therapy starts with evaluating your current physical condition, movement patterns, and any lingering issues from past injuries. This helps create a personalized treatment plan tailored to address specific needs and optimize performance.

2. Rehabilitation and Injury Prevention

For athletes returning from injury, rehabilitation is a critical component. Physical therapists design targeted rehabilitation programs to help athletes recover strength, flexibility, and function. Beyond injury recovery, physical therapy also focuses on preventing future injuries by addressing the root causes of past issues.

3. Enhancing Performance through Functional Movement

Functional Movement Screen (FMS) testing is an integral part of our approach at A Step Ahead Physical Therapy. This assessment helps identify movement inefficiencies and areas of concern. Based on FMS results, physical therapists design exercises to improve overall movement patterns, which directly translates to enhanced performance on the field or court.

4. Guidance on Proper Techniques and Recovery

Physical therapists not only help with physical conditioning but also provide valuable education on proper techniques and recovery strategies. This knowledge helps athletes perform exercises correctly and understand the importance of recovery in their training regimen.

5. Mental Readiness and Confidence

Returning to sports can be as much a mental challenge as a physical one. Physical therapists provide support and encouragement, helping athletes build confidence and mental resilience. A positive mindset can significantly impact performance and overall enjoyment of the sport.

Ready to Make Your Comeback?

At A Step Ahead Physical Therapy, we’re committed to helping high school athletes return to their sports with confidence and readiness. Our physical therapy services, including FMS testing, personalized rehabilitation, and strength training, are designed to support every aspect of your athletic journey.

Contact Us:

To learn more about how physical therapy can help you get back in the game or to schedule an appointment, visit our website or call us at (770) 998-6636. Let us help you step ahead in your sports career and make this season your best one yet!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Anna joined A Step Ahead Physical Therapy in 2022 and has been a physical therapist since graduating from Mercer University with her Doctorate in physical therapy in 2021. As a PT, she enjoys working with youth athletes, but also enjoys working with the weekend warriors and golfers. She has previously worked with and treated an array of orthopedic conditions within all lifespans.